ArcScan for ArcGIS, an extension to ArcInfo, ArcEditor, and ArcView, provides a comprehensive, efficient, and easy-to-use set of tools for raster-to-vector conversion.

Users can significantly minimize postprocessing work by using the automatic vectorization capabilities within ArcScan to create vector features from the entire image or by interactively vectorizing selected areas.

With ArcScan for ArcGIS you can:

• Perform automatic or interactive raster-to-vector data conversion with high precision.
• Create shapefile or geodatabase line and polygon features directly from raster images.
• Use raster snapping capabilities to make interactive vectorization more accurate and efficient.
• Prepare images for vectorization with simple raster editing.

ArcScan for ArcGIS provides raster-to-vector conversion tools for creating GIS vector feature data from scanned maps. Scanned image data can be converted to vector-based feature layers, such as shapefiles and geodatabase feature classes, using both interactive and batch tools.

ArcScan for ArcGIS also supports the ability to select raster cells to define the scope of vectorization, aid in raster cleanup, or create a new image.

Why Use ArcScan for ArcGIS?

ArcScan for ArcGIS simplifies the data automation process by providing a method and tools to clean up scanned paper maps and vectorize lines and polygons.

Use ArcScan for ArcGIS to:

• Automate the conversion of scanned paper maps to vector form.
• Reduce the time and expense in creating GIS data.
• Eliminate the tedious need to digitize the data by hand.
• Easily clean up scanned maps.

Who Uses ArcScan for ArcGIS?

Organizations that need to convert raster images to vector-based feature layers are the primary candidates for using ArcScan for ArcGIS. Since a large amount of geographic information still exists in the form of hard-copy maps, having a tool to quickly automate this data is crucial.

These legacy documents may be derived from engineering, survey, or cartographic maps. ArcScan for ArcGIS provides an efficient way to streamline this automation when compared to traditional techniques such as digitizing. ArcScan for ArcGIS will help you get needed data converted faster and easier.

Data automation of paper maps is needed in many industries including:

• Government Agencies: Counties with parcel or town planning maps
• Utilities: Maps of water, gas, and electrical facilities
• Natural Resources Agencies: Forestry or agricultural stands, soils, geology, hydrology maps